Norwich is known for its beautiful cobbled lanes, impressive historic buildings, and stunning green spaces. But it’s not just a city of sights. Norwich has lots of unique experiences to be enjoyed too. From sumptuous foodie treats and gin making, to river adventures and more. Read on for our top recommendations!
Whether you’re looking for a little upmarket dining one evening, or you want to enjoy some cosy pub grub like a local, you’re sorted in Norwich:
If it’s a special occasion, you’re looking for something a little indulgent, or you’re just after a delicious cocktail or two, then the Ivy Norwich Brasserie is the place to go. With its stunning interior and classic menu, you’ll definitely feel luxurious eating here. But never fear, it doesn’t have to come with a massive price tag. In fact, you can enjoy a three-course set menu for only £22.95. Plus if the weather’s nice you can dine al fresco!
The Ivy Norwich.
Transport yourself to Thailand by tucking into popular crowd-pleasers such as salt & pepper squid or sticky chicken at Giggling Squid. This restaurant in the heart of historic Tombland next to Norwich Cathedral is perfect for a quick or leisurely lunch or relaxed dinner. And it has plenty of outdoor seating. Make it a sociable experience by opting for the sharing platter for two (only £16.50).
The Ribs of Beef, Wensum Street
Live like a local by stopping off at The Ribs of Beef, a Norwich foodie institution. Looked after by the same owners for more than three decades, the official Ale House dates back to 1743, and is the best place in Norwich to sit back and sip on a nice cold beer as you look out over the river from its pretty outdoor terrace. Travelling with a furry friend? The good news is the pub is dog friendly!
But it’s not just a great place to savour some real ales or craft beers, there’s fabulous food too. Tuck into a burger for £12 – we recommend the Rebel Chicken, a buttermilk marinated chicken thigh coasted in spiced flour. Yummy.
Want to do something a bit more active? Norwich isn’t just filled with brilliant places to eat – there’s plenty of opportunity for food and drink tours, tasting and classes too!
Eat and drink your way through time, from Tudor Norwich to the present day on the Historic Food & Drink tour conducted by beer sommelier and Academy of Cheese member, Cheryl Cade. A unique way to combine the amazing food in Norwich with its interesting history. If you’d rather focus on just the food and drink, why not sign up for the Beer and Cheese matching tour? Or a Gin tour? Tours start from £20 per person, and there’s plenty of options to tickle your tastebuds. Find out more details on her website.
Cheryl Cade Tours
Gyre & Gimble Gin Academy, The Royal Arcade
If you’ve ever wanted to create your own gin, now is your chance. Gyre & Gimble have just opened a brand new gin academy in The Royal Arcade, and its here that you can become a drinks alchemist for a couple of hours. Learn about how gin is made, and choose from a range of botanicals to create your own blend. Your gin will be distilled and bottled – the perfect souvenir to take home. And the best part? As you get creative you’ll be treated to three gin and tonics. £75 per person.
The Gin Academy at Gyre & Gimble (c) Gyre & Gimble Norwich
Richard Hughes Cookery School, Theatre Street
Learn to impress in the kitchen on a Richard Hughes Cookery School course. Set in an atmospheric ‘just right’ kitchen full of big bottomed copper pans, vintage French kitchen gadgets and windows overlooking a beautiful fountain, even the surroundings are lovely – never mind the food. Courses range from Classic French Patisserie to French Bistro Classics and Classic Italian. The day-long courses start from £155 each. And in addition to step-by-step instruction, you’ll also have lunch to look forward to included in the price.
It’s not just incredible food and drink you can experience in Norwich. There’s plenty of unique activities you can enjoy as well. And if you want to discover the city from a new perspective, we’ve got just the thing:
Norwich Ghost Walks, Adam & Eve pub, Bishopsgate
Spot some ghoulish ghosts – or at least try to – when you embark on an evening ghost walk around the Cathedral, Norwich Castle, Tombland and Elm Hill. All guided walks start at 7.30pm outside the Adam & Eve pub and will take you around the city’s spookiest spots as you learn of Norwich’s spine chilling past… Tickets £12 (adults).
As its name suggests, Pub and Paddle involves renting a canoe and making your way via the water to a riverside pub for a pint (or gin, wine etc.). Trips range from £12.50 per person (for a two-hour paddle around Norwich) up to £30 per person for a one-way trip out to Coldham Hall. There are four trips to choose from, depending on how much paddling you want to do or how many riverside pubs you want to pay homage to! All start from Elm Hill Quay pontoon next to the Ribs of Beef pub. Whichever route you choose, you’re guaranteed a bit of fun on the water, some refreshing pit stops, and the chance to see beautiful Norwich from a new perspective.
Pub and Paddle boats moored up at Quayside
There’s obviously lots going on in the city centre, but head to the outskirts of Norwich and you’ll find some hidden gems too. Eaton Park is a beautiful spot with a surprising amount of activities to do! Stroll around and admire the quaint rose garden, before stopping at the boating pond. If you’re in luck – you’ll catch the model boat club setting up a miniature battle or display on the water. Or if it’s a quieter day, see if you can spot the Heron that’s known to visit there. For a bit of fun, check out Eaton Park Crazy Golf (Adults £5). The 18-hole course is great fun for couples, friends and families – and the perfect opportunity to get competitive. How about the slowest around the course has to pay for drinks and cake at the park cafe?
Eaton Park
